When the revolutionary Wii U console launches across North America on Nov. 18, the lineup of available games will include a riveting action title with features unavailable on any other system. Nintendo has confirmed thatNINJA GAIDEN 3: Razor’s Edge for Wii U will launch with new weapons and characters, a redesigned battle system and online multiplayer modes* that let fans savor the adventure together. The game is a powerhouse addition to what promises to be a spectacular software lineup for Wii U.

In NINJA GAIDEN 3: Razor’s Edge, the enigmatic warrior Ryu Hayabusa must fight to lift a curse that threatens to destroy him. Whereas the original NINJA GAIDEN 3 included only three weapons for players to choose from, this new version offers six weapons – Sword, Claws, Scythe, Dual Katana, Staff and Kusari-Gama – each with its own unique strengths. The number of available Ninpo has also been increased from one to three.

The following features and enhancements in NINJA GAIDEN 3: Razor’s Edge are exclusive to Wii U:

Ayane as a playable character: In previous versions of the game, Ayane appeared only briefly in one cut scene. Now players can help her progress through her own exclusive chapters using a special set of weapons and Ninpo attacks.

Character-progression system: Using Karma points earned during game play, players can upgrade weapons and Ninpo, learn new moves, increase their HP level and unlock new character costumes.

Ryu and Ayane playable in co-op mode: For the first time, players can use Ryu or Ayane to represent themselves in the game’s online co-op mode.

Test of Valor battle areas: Each chapter includes a hidden battle area called Test of Valor. Upon finding hidden Crystal Skulls, players will be transported to these areas to face down waves of enemies and classic NINJA GAIDEN boss characters with new moves.

Wii U GamePad Functionality: Using the Wii U GamePad, players can easily change weapons or Ninpo attacks, and also quickly reference the button inputs required for various combo attacks without ever stopping the action.

Additional Playable Characters: After the launch of the game, additional playable characters will become available as free downloadable content. More information about these characters will be revealed at a later time.

More Tenacious Enemies: The Wii U version of the game restores enemies’ ability to fight when severely wounded, requiring players to stay nimble with their battle strategies.